Hariri: National dialogue only path forward
Lebanon-Syria, Politics, 7/8/2006

Saad al-Hariri, MP and Head of the Future bloc in the Lebanon's Parliament reaffirmed commitment to the national dialogue conference underway between Lebanese political leaders, to resolve outstanding national issues and called for courageous decisions to "salvage" the country and cement unity.

He said yesterday at a dinner that he hosted for the Islamic association of academic guidance, that assassinated Prime Minister Rafic Hariri had seen education as the only way to fight ignorance, poverty, and corruption.

At the gathering, which was attended by Acting Interior Minister Ahmad Fatfat and a large number of dignitaries, Hariri said the late Premier wanted Lebanon to rise after the war, and had achieved national unity, sovereignty and independence after his assassination.

He made clear that several agreements have been reached already regarding the national dialog, including support for the UN-commissioned probe of Prime Minister Hariri's assassination, the creation of an international tribunal, the expansion of the scope of the investigations to include other terrorist attacks in Lebanon, and the unanimous accord over establishing diplomatic relations with Syria, as well as the issue of Palestinian arms inside refugee camps.

He stressed that until a year ago any discussion of Palestinian arms would have been considered treason. He said political leaders still have to agree on the fate of Hizbullah's arms.

Asked about the economy, head of the Future bloc said the Beirut I international conference, now under preparation, will include a package of important reforms that will be underpinned by funding from donor nations to tackle Lebanon's public debt. A development programs in various parts of the country will also complement the reforms. However, he highlighted the need for political stability, citing Prime Minister Hariri's success in holding the Paris II international conference, which was later intentionally torpedoed by political obstacles.

Hariri said he has no problem with relations with Syria or the Syrians, and that Lebanon should be respected like any other Arab state.

Hariri was asked about concerns over a Sunni-Shiite confrontation in Lebanon. He said this will not happen since Shiite and Sunni leaders are aware of the prevailing danger, and will act together to foil any such plots, which are a "red line" for the Future Movement.

Previous Stories:
  Progress in Hariri murder probe   (6/15/2006)
  Khaddam says al-Assad must have ordered Hariri murder   (6/13/2006)
  Mubarak, Berri discuss Lebanese-Syrian settlement   (6/10/2006)
  Hariri condemns Nasrallah supporters reactions   (6/3/2006)
  Hariri, Fatah delegation discuss Palestinian weapons   (6/1/2006)
  Hariri: Lebanese have no choice but dialogue   (5/19/2006)

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